Leona Garnick

Gisela Isabella Bertagnolli married John McKinley Wilde in Rock Springs, Wyo., and they were blessed with one daughter, Leona Virginia, who was named for her grandfather Leo and Aunt Virginia. She was born June 17, 1923, and throughout her growing up years, Leona was active in school as a cheerleader, a trained dancer and an accomplished accordionist.

Social activities brought tremendous enjoyment to Leona throughout her life, right up to her peaceful passing on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2013. She was, in fact, rehearsing to present an accordion concert at Grizzly Peak Retirement Center in Missoula.

One of her favorite hobbies was playing bridge, which she enjoyed for many years. She worked as a legal secretary, worked in the office for the Bureau of Land Management and during the war was a secretary for the railroad.

Leona married Frank Philip Garnick in 1947, and they had one child they named Francine Marie. Adding to the family membership was son-in-law Phil Harris; grandchildren Mary Reynolds of Helena, Michael and wife Monique of Spokane; and two great-grandchildren, Melissa and Emilia Harris.

Throughout her 90 years of living, Leona made herself at home in several locations. After leaving Rock Springs, the Garnick family moved to Pinedale, Wyo., then later to Tonasket, Wash. Following a short time there, they moved to Deer Lodge to be near family. Just a few years ago, they moved to Missoula, where Leona lost the love of her life, her husband of 64 years.

She became an active Missoulian, enjoying Griz football games, playing bridge, attending concerts of her favorite musical group, the Treasure State Chorale, playing accordion and attending First Lutheran Church. Spending time with family and friends was time well-spent, according to Leona.

Memorial services will be held at a later date when all family members will be able to participate. At her request, she asked for no flowers. She would like donations in her name sent to her daughter, Francine, to be given to the Treasure State Chorale and used to sponsor a concert in her memory. Francine can be reached at 2905 O'Shaughnessy, Unit 108, Missoula, MT 59808

Read Leona Garnick's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.